What is a boiler hydraulic pressure test?
Short answer
| Aspect | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Test medium | Water |
| Test pressure | 1.5 × maximum working pressure |
| Components | Boiler, superheaters, mountings, feed/steam fittings |
| Witness | Surveyor |
| Gauges | Calibrated with valid certification |
- Definition: Filling the boiler and its mountings with water and pressurising to 1.5 × maximum working pressure to check strength and leak-tightness
- Test pressure: 1.5 × maximum working pressure of the boiler
- Components tested: Boiler, superheaters, mountings, feed and steam pipe fittings
- When required: New boilers on completion, after structural repairs, when internal examination is not possible, as required by surveyor
- Procedure: Fill with water, vent air, apply pressure gradually, hold and inspect thoroughly, use calibrated gauges, surveyor witnesses
- Surveyor checks: Boiler suitability for intended working pressure, proper test conduct, gauge calibration certificates
- As 2/E: Ensure preparation, safety, calibrated gauges, surveyor witness, documentation in survey file
Full answer
The full answer explains each point step by step, with the regulations and figures behind it and the discussion from other candidates. It is in the MEO Class II section of the Marine One forum, open to members enrolled for the MEO Class II exam.